Good for Another 1000 Miles: Artie Evans Turns 90!

There are a lot of reasons why I still drive 30 minutes to workout at the West Morris Area YMCA when there are plenty of gyms much closer to my house. Like a lot of things in life, the people who you surround yourself with make all the difference.

I met Artie as he was coming out of the locker room a few years back. He must have had a great workout because he had a nice spring to his step and said, “good for another 1000 miles!” as he passed by.

Artie has a lot of fans at the YMCA. That was evident by the large group of friends and staff who stuck around this morning for a little birthday celebration in his honor. Being a fan isn’t too hard. Artie seems to have plenty of positivity and charisma to share with everyone.

I had the chance to chat with Evans today about his thoughts on life and his secrets to longevity. He credits his wife of 60 years, Ruth, as being his foundation and thanks her for keeping him “in line” and “out of trouble.” “She is the most wonderful wife in the world.”

mp: What were some of the most challenging experiences over the years?

AE: “I made it through the war and the depression… I remember putting cardboard in my shoes when the soles wore out.” Then we both agreed.. “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.”

Since Artie looks like he is only 70 instead of 90, I figured he drank juice mixes like Jack Lalanne or something… but his actual drink of choice took me by surprise;

“A Manhattan! With 2 cherries. One with the stem and one without the stem.”

When I asked Artie if he wanted to share any health and wellness tips with my fellow fitness enthusiast readers, he answered without hesitation. “The Jacuzzi!”

The Artie Evans Fan Club

After warming up with cardio and hitting the weight machines, Evans and his pals talk about the stock market while treading water in the pool and then cruise over to the jacuzzi to flirt with the ladies who just got done with their aqau-aerobics class. 🙂

Finishing up his routine with a hot shower and shave, you might catch Artie on the way out saying, “good for another 1000 miles.”

Happy Birthday sir. The Celebrate Life Team wishes you continued health and happiness! -mp

“When you discard arrogance, complexity, and a few other things that get in the way, sooner or later you will discover that simple, childlike, and mysterious secret known to some: Life is Fun!“ – Benjamin Hoff The Tao of Pooh